Maribyrnong City Council’s free grant search tool connects community groups with vital funding

Maribyrnong City Council’s latest initiative, a free grant search tool called SmartySearch, is transforming access to funding opportunities for local organisations, small businesses, schools and individuals by offering a free and simple way to browse grants.

In an initiative led by Maribyrnong City Council’s community grants officer, Emily Fuller, SmartySearch was launched on the council’s website earlier this year with the aim of connecting community groups to available grants. The tool provides access to a wide range of grant opportunities across Australia, at no cost to Maribyrnong residents. SmartySearch removes the financial barrier to exploring grants, making it an essential new resource for the community.

To spread the word, Ms Fuller has actively promoted SmartySearch through e-newsletters, at a dedicated grant information workshop, and by distributing postcards with QR codes in libraries and community centres.

“Having something tangible to read in the library and a code to scan makes it easier for people to engage,” said Ms Fuller

Many users visit the council’s website to explore funding options, and now SmartySearch is part of the mix. An accessible alternative to paid grant search tools, it enables small groups with limited budgets to consider funding they might not otherwise have found.

Interested in offering SmartySearch to your community? SmartySearch can be easily customised for and integrated into any council website, giving residents free access to grants while relieving councils of time-consuming administrative tasks. SmartyGrants pricing starts at $1500 per year.

Learn more about bringing SmartySearch to your community by visiting fundingcentre.com.au/smartysearch.